In a remarkable achievement, IIT Madras’ startup, Agnikul Cosmos, has launched the world’s first rocket with a single-piece three-dimensional (3D) printed engine. The rocket Agnibaan SOrTeD (SubOrbital Technological Demonstrator) is also India’s first semi-cryogenic engine-powered rocket launch that was completely designed and manufactured indigenously. It was also launched from India’s first privately developed launchpad called ‘Dhanush’ established by Agnikul at Sriharikota in Andhra Pradesh at 7.15 a.m. today. The test flight aims to demonstrate in-house and homegrown technologies, gather crucial flight data, and ensure the optimal functioning of systems for Agnikul’s orbital launch vehicle, the ‘Agnibaan’.
While congratulating Agnikul Cosmos on the successful launch of Agnibaan-SOrTeD, ISRO Chairman S. Somanath said that the achievement motivates ISRO to support space startups and non-governmental entities for innovation and Atmanirbharata to create a vibrant space ecosystem in the country.
Agnibaan is a two-stage rocket with a capacity to carry up to 300 kg to a height of 700 km. The rocket engines are powered by liquid oxygen or kerosene. It can access both low- and high-inclination orbits and is completely mobile, designed for accessing more than 10 launch ports, as per the company.
